":v)iv,  '  1  iiiir-'-''i'-^t 
l.ibi'Kty  School, 
Urbana, 


PUBLICITY 

By  Jeannette  M.  Drake,  library  organizer  and  member  of  instructional  staff 

(From  the  Wisconsin  Library  Bulletin) 

As  the  result  of  visits  to  libraries  in  the  state,  the  conclusion  has  been 
reached  that  those  libraries  that  are  the  least  active  and  seem  to  have  the 
least  influence  and  standing  in  a  town,  are  those  where  the  librarian  and 
board  members  do  not  appreciate  the  value  of  advertising  the  library.  It  is 
also  true  that  the  reason  many  libraries  continue  with  the  same  annual  ap- 
propriation is  that  almost  no  effort  is  made  by  those  in  whose  care  the  library 
has  been  placed  to  have  the  appropriation  increased. 

For  the  benefit  of  librarians  and  members  of  library  boards  who  will  make 
use  of  suggestions,  this  number  of  the  Bulletin  is  largely  devoted  to  the  sub- 
ject of  Advertising  the  library.  Concrete  examples  are  given  of  actual  ex- 
periments, so  that  the  same  plans  or  something  very  similar  can  be  used  in 
many  places. 

No  attempt  has  been  made  to  cover  the  entire  subject  in  this  number,  and 
some  lines  of  the  work  where  there  are  the  greatest  opportunities,  as  with 
schools,  are  not  considered  at  all.  It  is  possible  for  even  the  smallest  libraries 
to  carry  out  most  of  the  suggestions  which  are  given. 

General  aids.  Librarians  can  get  hints  and  suggestions  from  books  on  ad- 
vertising that  are  written  for  business  men.  The  monthly  magazine  System 
should  be  read  regularly  with  the  idea  of  finding  something  that  can  be  adapted 
to  the  library  profession.  We  belong  to  a  profession  in  which  we  meet  the 
people  of  the  world  as  much  as  in  any  other,  and  we  cannot  afford  to  neglect 
taking  advantage  of  all  possible  suggestions. 

It  will  pay  the  librarian  who  is  interested  to  read  the  articles  in  back  num- 
bers of  the  library  periodicals,  bulletins,  annual  reports  and  keep  up  to  date 
with  this  literature.  Among  others,  the  following  articles  will  be  found  sug- 
gestive: 

Drake,  J.  M.    How  to  get  non-fiction  read.    Wisconsin  library  bulletin,  v. '5,  p.  1-5.  Jan.-Feb.. 
1909. 

Hayward,  C.  A.    Advertising  libraries.    Public  libraries,  v.  14,  p.  7-10.    Jan.  1909. 

Wright,  P.  B.    Some  methods  of  library  advertising.    Library  journal,  v.  31,   C  p.  86-88, 

Ti    1  e\f\o 


4 


WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN    [February,  1910 


Monthly  and  special  bulletins.  The  Newark,  N.  J.,  public  library  plan  of 
preparing  monthly  and  occasional  typewritten  bulletins,  giving  the  latest  acces- 
sions on  a  certain  subject  and  also  the  author,  title  and  exact  references  to  a 
few  of  the  best  articles  in  the  current  numbers  of  the  periodicals  is  a  good  one. 
These  are  mailed  to  those  whom  they  know  are  or  may  be  interested  in  keep- 
ing pace  with  what  the  library  has  and  also  what  is  being  written  on  the 
subject.  As  there  are  many  people  who  may  be  interested  in  seeing  the  same 
bulletin,  mimeograph  copies  can  be  used  to  advantage.  ■ 

There  are  many  different  kinds  of  duplicating  processes,  ranging  in  cost 
from  $2.50  to  $25.  One  which  will  answer  for  the  small  libraries  is  Todd's 
Chicago  hektograph,  which  can  be  bought  from  A.  C.  McClurg  &  Co.,  Chi- 
cago, Illinois.  The  desirable  size  is  letter  size,  10  x  12>^,  at  $3.84,  with  a  dis- 
count of  about  40  per  cent. 

Religious  subjects.  A  list  of  religious  periodicals  on  file  in  the  library  was 
sent  to  the  pastors  of  one  city  and  brought  personal  thanks  from  many  and 
was  partly  responsible  for  the  preaching  of  an  evening  sermon  to  young  people 
on  the  use  of  the  library. 

A  list  sent  to  Sunday  school  teachers  containing  helps  and  aids  as  well 
as  good  bible  stories  has  been  found  to  be  ver}^  useful. 

Municipal  subjects.  In  order  that  your  city  council  may  profit  by  the  ex- 
perience of  others  collect  data  in  the  library  showing  how  other  cities  have 
solved  problems  of  sewerage,  paving,  civic  art,  etc.  After  you  have  the  ma- 
terial keep  the  mayor  and  the  aldermen  aware  of  its  existence,  by  frequent 
lists.  Send  them  a  list  of  books  on  the  subjects  they  should  study  and  then 
supplement  it  with  lists  as  new  books  are  added,  also  keep  them  informed  of 
.all  current  magazine  articles  on  such  subjects.  They  will  be  interested  to 
know  that  a  great  deal  of  current  newspaper  material  may  be  found  by  using 
the  Current  events  index.  Some  years  ago  information  found  in  a  book  in 
the  Cincinnati  public  library  (which  at  that  time  could  be  obtained  no  where 
else)  saved  the  city  over  $300,000,  a  sum  sufficient  to  pay  the  expenses  of  the 
library  for  six  years. 

Educational.  A  similar  list  should  be  sent  to  teachers,  and  posted  in  the 
school  building  on  the  library  bulletin  board.  It  is  best  to  have  one  bulletin 
for  the  teachers  of  the  ward  schools,  and  another  for  those  of  the  high  school, 
as  their  interests  are  somewhat  difi^erent,  although  sometimes  the  same  book 
or  article  should  be  listed  for  both. 

Similar  lists  should  be  prepared  and  sent  to  insurance  men,  doctors,  nurses, 
electricians,  members  of  the  G.  A.  R.,  etc.  When  there  are  several  people  in 
one  place,  make  one  copy  do  and  have  it  posted  where  all  will  see  it,  such  as 
one  on  the  bulletin  board  in  each  school  building,  one  on  electricity  in  the 
power  house,  etc. 

The  following  is  a  sample  of  a  bulletin,  according  to  the  form  of  those  is- 
sued by  llic  Newark,  N.  J.,  ])ublic  library,  which  is  made  up  of  recent  material 


February,  1910]     WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN  5 

for  the  teachers  of  the  high  school.  The  annotations  of  the  books  are  taken 
from  the  A.  L.  A.  Book-Hst. 

EDUCATIONAL.  BULLETIN 

December,  1909    .  ^ 

Free  Public  Library  of  Blankville,  Wisconsin 
Recent  books  of  interest  for  teachers  of  bigh  schools 
Addams,  Jane.    The  spirit  of  youth  and  the  city  streets.   ^  '       u  „,.^„r,^ 

An  invaluable  book  to  those  who  are  trying  to  minimize  the  dangers  which  surround 
young  people  in  large  cities  by  giving  them  opportunities  for  recreation. 
Cubberly,  E.  P.    Changing  conceptions  of  education. 

Story  of  the  rise  and  growth  of  our  public  school  system,  discussing  the  kind  of  edu- 
cation needed  to  meet  the  demands  of  a  mixed  population.    Will  interest  teachers  and 
general  readers. 
Davenport,  Eugene.    Education  for  efficiency. 

Chapters  on   practical  methods  of  procedure  in   introducing  agricultural   courses  into 
high  and  normal  schools. 
Earhart,  L.  B.    Teaching  children  to  study. 

Guide  book  for  teachers  and  parents.    Especially  adapted  to  the  needs  of  the  elementary 
schools. 

Hollistor,  H.  A.    High  school  administration. 

Exhaustive   consideration  of  the  larger  problems   of  secondary  education   as  they  ex- 
ist in  the  high  school.  ,  .  , 
McMurry,  F.  M.    How  to  study  and  teaching  how  to  study. 

Instructive  and  interesting  factors  involved  in  true  or  logical  study  with  practical  sug- 
gestions for  training  children  to  apply  the  logical  method  to  textbook  study. 
Olin,  H.  R.    The  women  of  a  state  university. 

Facts  and  figures  on  the  value  of  women's  higher  education  and  an  argument  for  abso- 
lute co-education  in  distinction  from  segregation. 

ARTICLES    IN    RECENT  MAGAZINES 

Beveridge,  A.  J.    Fifth  wheel  in  our  government.    Century,  Dec.  1909. 

Discusses  the  functions  and  powers  of  the  Vice-President  of  the  United  States. 
Bradford,  Gamaliel,  Jr.  The  novel  2,000  years  ago.  Fortnightly  review.  Dec.  1909. 
Camp,  Walter.      Football  up  to  date.    Century,  Nov.  1909. 

By  the  foremost  authority  on  college  sports. 
Crampton,  C.  W.    Education  by  play.    Educational  review.    Dec.  1909. 
Crothers,  S.  M.    Convention  of  books.    Atlantic,  Dec.  1909. 

Humorous  conversation  between  old  and  new  books. 
Gould,  G.  M.    Back  strain  and  eye-strain.    Survey,  25     Dec.  1909. 
Hooker,  Brian.    Popular  element  in  literature.    Forum,  Nov,  1909. 

Main,  Josiah.    Some  factors  in  the  making  of  a  high  school  course  in  agricullture.  Educa- 
tion, Dec.  1909. 

Miller,  W.  T.    Vocation-teaching.    Atlantic,  Nov.  1909. 

Discusses  value  of  a  trained  vocational  adviser  to  help  young  people  in  selecting  a 
business. 

Nathan,  G.  J.    Funny  side  of  football.    Outing,  Nov.  1909. 
Showerman,  Grant.    Making  of  a  professor.    Atlantic,  Nov.  1909. 

Appearance  of  building.  The  attractiveness  of  the  building  is  of  first  im- 
portance when  one  is  attempting  to  make  the  library  popular.  The  building 
should  be  both  useful  and  comfortable,  as  well  as  pleasing  to  the  eye.  Li- 
brarians should  make  it  by  far  the  most  attractive  public  building  in  town. 
Have  the  necessary  house-keeping  accurately  and  constantly  attended  to;  have 
books  in  good  order  on  the  shelves ;  always  have  comfortable  chairs,  good 
light  and  ventilation.  This  point  has  been  urged  again  and  again,  but  there 
are  still  many  librarians  who  do  not  realize  its  importance. 

Telephone.  Encourage  people  to  telephone  their  wants  to  the  library,  i.  e., 
renew  books,  ask  reference  questions,  ask  if  certain  books  which  they  want 
are  in,  etc. 

The  Grand  Rapids,  Mich.,  public  library  has  a  full  page  advertisement  in 
the  telephone  directory.    It  is  worded  as  follows  : 

"To  get  an  answer,  in  a  few  minutes,  to  a  question  that  arises  in  connection  with  youi 
business  is  worth  more  to  you  than  the  answer  you  get  tomorrow.  The  Grand  Rapids 
public  library  answers  many  questions  over  the  telephone.  Its  resources  are  more  than 
100,000  books  and  pamphlets  and  600  current  periodicals. 

"So  far  as  it  is  within  its  power  the  library  is  always  glad  to  be  of  service  in  this  way," 


6 


JVISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN    [February,  1910 


If  there  is  more  than  one  telephone  system  in  town  the  library  should  have 
both. 

Printed  circulars  and  broadsides.  Many  kinds  of  printed  circulars  have 
been  issued  by  libraries  for  advertising  purposes.  Some  idea  will  be  given 
of  two  or  three  that  have  proven -especially  successful. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  a  broadside  issued  by  the  Marinette  (Wis.) 
public  library.  The  size  was  6''  by  ^Vi.*''.  There  were  about  10,000  of  these 
distributed  and  the  result  was  that  the  circulation  increased  twenty-five  per 
cent  the  next  month. 

DO  YOU  TAKE  BOOKS  FROM  THE  PUBLIC  LIBRARY? 
IF  NOT,  WHY  NOT? 
The  Library  belongs  to  You,  why  not  make  use  of  Your  Investment? 
Come  and  see  what  the  hbrary  has  anywa^^    If  you  have  never  been  here  you  don't 
know  what  a  good  place  the  library  is.    If  you  have  been  here,  come  again. 
YOU  NEED  THE  LIBRARY  AND 

THE  LIBRARY  NEEDS  YOU. 

A  circular  called  "Don't  be  a  quitter"  was  distributed  by  the  Grand  Rapids 
(Mich.)  public  library  to  the  senior  class  in  the  high  school.  It  is  in  the  form 
of  a  story  of  a  boy  who  after  leaving  school  continued  his  study  by  using  the 
public  library.  As  the  result  of  his  increased  information,  he  worked  his 
way  up  from  one  position  to  another,  at  increased  salaries.  This  circular  was 
published  in  Public  Libraries,  Feb.  1907,  v.  12,  p.  65-66,  and  may  be  bought 
in  circular  form  from  H.  W.  Wilson  &  Co.,  Minneapolis,  Minn.,  at  25c  per 
hundred.  It  will  pay  any  library,  large  or  small,  to  distribute  these  very 
freely. 

The  Niles  (Mich.)  public  library  sent  printed  invitations  to  persons  whose 
names  were  in  the  city  directory  and  not  enrolled  in  the  library,  to  come  and 
see  what  the  library  contained  that  might  interest  them.  Special  attention 
was  called  to  the  contents  of  the  reading  room,  the  hours  of  opening,  and  sug- 
gestions were  asked  for  concerning  new  books.  Business  men,  mechanics, 
railroad  men,  men  of  all  vocations  were  asked  to  let  the  librarian  know  what 
would  be  helpful  to  them  in  their  work  or  recreation. 

One  library  issued  a  printed  bulletin  announcing  some  of  the  books  and 
magazines  in  the  library  on  useful  arts  with  the  heading  "Please  post  in  a 
conspicuous  place''  and  sent  it  to  industrial  establishments. 

The  Superior  (Wis.)  public  library  issued,  some  time  ago,  a  "Circular  of 
information  on  the  use  and  contents  of  the  library".  It  gives  the  hours  of 
opening,  states  briefly  the  library's  purpose,  who  may  use  it,  adds  general  in- 
formation about  the  use  of  books,  what  the  library  has,  its  arrangement,  how 
tc  find  books,  what  the  numbers  on  the  books  mean,  emimerates  the  ten  classes 
of  the  decimal  classification,  list  of  magazines  received,  magazines  in  the  chil- 
dren's room,  list  of  ncws])apers,  indexes  to  bound  magazines,  important  ref- 
erence books,  and  closes  with  a  brief  history  of  the  library.  This  was  pub- 
lished in  good  form  and  has  just  such  information  as  will  interest  people. 

In  preparing  a  circular  of  this  sort  care  should  be  taken  not  to  have  it  too 
long  or  detailed. 


February,  1910]     WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN 


7 


Another  library  sent  out  to  a  large  number  of  people  who  were  not  using  the 
library  the  following  circular  and  also  had  it  printed  in  the  newspaper. 

LIBRARY  WANTS 

We  want  business  men  to  call  on  us  for  statistics,  etc. 
We  want  railroad  men  to  use  our  railroad  books. 

We  want  mechanics  to  tell  us  what  books  they  need  for  their  study. 
We  want  taxpayers  to  see  that  we  are  a  paying  investment. 
We  want  mothers  to  come  and  see  what  we  have  for  children. 

W^e  want  teachers,  ministers  and  newspaper  men  to  depend  on  us  and  inform  us  where 
we  are  wanting. 

We  want  more  readers  in  our  reading  room  daytime  and  evening. 

W^e  want  all  residents  to  feel  a  pride  and  an  interest  in  their  librar}^  to  come  to  it 
for  their  books,  or,  if  they  buy  their  books,  just  to  see  what  we  have  and  in  every  way 
to  show  a  lively  interest  in  it. 

The  Jackson  (Mich.)  public  library  issued  a  calendar  with  five  pointed 
suggestions  about  the  use  of  the  library.  The  librarian  says  "Several  thousand 
were  printed  and  delivered  to  each  household  of  the  city.  It  served  as  an 
attractive  and  useful  reminder  that  the  library  was  their  opportunity  under 
new  conditions.    It  was  more  than  worth  while". 

Posters.  A  poster  giving  general  information  about  the  library  should  be 
up  in  public  places,  as  hotels,  stations,  store  buildings,  street  cars,  etc.  The 
posters  may  be  various  sizes,  but  should  be  large  enough  so  that  the  printing 
can  be  read  at  some  distance,  perhaps  24"xl5"  is  a  good  general  size.  It 
should  be  without  much  decoration,  white  in  color  and  make  prominent  the 
name  of  the  library,  and  the  words  ''free  to  all".  It  should  also  contain  the 
location,  hours  of  weekly  and  Sunday  opening  and  a  general  invitation  to  visit 
the  library. 

The  librarian  of  the  Jackson  (Mich.)  public  library  says,  ''We  are  now  mak- 
ing plans  for  framed  posters,  showdng  a  cut  of  the  library  building, 
and  giving  opening  hours  and  other  information,  to  be  hung  in  stations,  halls, 
factories,  postoffice,  etc." 

It  has  also  been  suggested  that  the  author,  title  and  brief  annotation  of 
books  posted  in  these  public  places  would  be  worth  while.  It  would  seem 
best  to  experiment  with  books  of  non-fiction  that  should  interest  business  men, 
city  officials,  etc.  Perhaps  a  notice  of  one  book  at  a  time,  with  frequent 
changes,  would  prove  satisfactory. 

Letters  to  organizations.  The  following  is  a  sample  of  a  plan  tried  in 
Jacksonville,  lUinois,  which  had  good  results. 

Trade  unions.  The  first  letter  is  directed  to  the  Chairman  of  each  trade 
union  in  town. 

Mr.  , 

City. 
Dear  Sir : — 

As  I  know  that  you  are  interested  in  the  Public  Library,  will  you  kindly  read  the  en- 
closed invitation  to  the  members  of  your  union? 

I  should  be  grateful  if  you  felt  like  emphasizing  the  value  of  the  library,  and  if  yo^s 
would,  at  the  same  time,  ask  some  of  your  members  or  friends  to  speak  in  its  favor. 
Will  you  mention  the  library  hours,  especialh^,  evenings  and  Sunday  afternoons? 


8 


JVISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN    [Lcbniary,  1910 


Any  suggestions  from  you  as  to  ways  in  which  we  might  make  the  Hbrary  more  in- 
teresting or  useful  to  you  in  your  work  or  in  your  home  will  be  acted  upon,  if  possible. 
I  would  be  very  glad  to  talk  with  you  personally  about  this  matter. 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

Librarian. 

[Letter  enclosed] 

Boiler  Makers'  Union, 

Jacksonville,  Illinois. 
Gentlemen : — 

As  the  time  of  the  year  is  approaching  when  we  are  forced  to  seek  pleasure  indoors, 
I  wish  to  extend  to  you  and  to  your  families  a  most  cordial  invitation  to  make  every 
possible  use  of  your  public  library.  The  library  is  supported  by  taxation  and  every 
citizen  of  Jacksonville  should  feel  perfectly  at  home  there  and  secure  for  himself  the 
utmost  pleasure  and  benefit  from  its  resources. 

We  have  on  file  in  the  reading-room,  Jacksonville,  Springfield,  St.  Louis  and  Chica^ 
papers,  and  about  80  current  magazines.    These  are  for  general  use  in  the  room. 

Books  may  be  borrowed  without  charge  from  the  library  upon  apphcation  at  the  loan 
desk.  The  loan  desk  is  in  plain  sight,  opposite  the  main  entrance,  where  you  will 
find  someone  who  will  be  glad  to  an=wer  any  questions  and  to  show  you  about  the  li- 
brary. 

The  library  is  open  from  9  a.  m.  to  9  p.  m.  during  the  week  and  the  reading  room 
from  2  to  6  on  Sundays. 

Ver}^  sincerely  yours, 

Librarian, 

A  similar  letter  could  be  sent  to  any  kind  of  organization. 

Methods  of  distributing  circulars.  The  city  officials  of  one  town  put  a 
library  circular  in  the  envelopes  with  the  water  rent,  tax  notices  and  other 
official  letters.  The  library  is  a  city  institution,  and  it  is  perfectly  legitimate 
for  the  city  officers  to  help  develop  the  usefulness  of  it.  This  saved  post- 
age and  other  mailing  expenses,  identified  the  library  with  other  departments 
of  the  city  government,  and  gave  the  circular  the  prestige  of  being  sent  out 
with  official  notices. 

The  librarian  of  the  Marinette  (Wis.)  public  library  influenced  the  pro- 
prietor of  the  leading  department  store  to  have  one  of  the  broadsides,  which 
the  library  had  issued,  placed  in  each  package  that  was  sent  from  the  store 
until  about  8,000  had  been  distributed. 

Circulars  have  been  placed  in  the  pay  envelopes  of  people  working  in  mills, 
mines,  etc.  This  could  be  used  effectively  in  all  establishments  where  pay 
envelopes  are  used.  Librarians  might  offer  to  insert  the  circulars  in  the  en- 
velopes in  advance. 

The  librarian  of  the  Grand  Rapids  fIVTich.)  public  library  gives  the  fol- 
low^ing  account  of  reaching  people  who  were  not  using  the  library: 

"Wc  checked  up  the  directory  of  one  of  the  telephone  companies  to  see 
into  how  many  homes  listed  in  the  directory  the  library  goes  and  also  into 
how  many  it  does  not  go.  Tt  was  found  according  to  our  street  index,  that 
there  were  nearly  2.000  residents  in  ^^  hich  no  card  holder  resided.  A  circu- 
lai  letter  was  addessed  to  llie  name  gi\'cn  in  the  directory  at  each  particular 
house  and  enclosed  in  it  a  copy  of  a  leaflet  entitled  'W'h.at  the  Grand  Rapids 
public  librar\'  can  do  for  you'.  The  registration  dejiartment  reported  that  a 
good  many  |)eoi)1e  res])on(led  to  the  letter." 

This  librar)'  also  (listri])ute(l  about  0,000  circulars  at  the  W'est  Michigan  state 


February,  1910]     WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN 


9 


fair.  These  circulars  told  of  the  advantages  and  the  duties  of  the  library. 
The  results  were  satisfactory.  This  method  might  be  used  in  any  town  dur- 
ing street  fairs,  election  days,  or  other  times  when  a  large  number  of  people 
will  be  on  the  streets. 

Personal  interviews.  It  is  very  evident  that  many  librarians  spend  most 
of  their  time  in  their  office  and  leave  the  contact  with  the  patrons  almost  en- 
tirely to  the  assistants.  The  fact  that  patrons  get  their  idea  of  the  library 
from  the  people  who  wait  upon  them  cannot  be  emphasized  too  strongly  in 
order  that  more  care  be  taken  in  this  matter.  "Skillful  lawyers  travel  100 
tniles  to  say  what  could  be  written  in  2  pages,  knowing  how  much  safer  it  is 
in  important  matters.  The  written  sheet  is  understood  by  the  mental  attitude 
of  the  reader  and  in  the  personal  interview  the  attitude  of  the  speaker  con- 
trols." My  strong  feeling  is  that  every  plea  for  library  advertising,  as  well 
as  many  other  relationships  between  the  librarian  and  the  public,  should  be 
saturated  with  this  idea  of  having  as  many  personal  interviews  as  possible. 
Your  own  interest  and  enthusiasm  should  soon  give  your  library  a  reputation 
for  hospitality,  which  is  one  of  the  greatest  factors  in  attracting  and  keeping 
patrons. 

To  insure  the  best  results  the  librarian  must  keep  well  informed  on  current 
reading  material  that  is  being  added  to  the  library.  One  cannot  have  as  much 
influence  as  he  should  with  patrons  unless  he  has  read  the  books  himself  and 
can  talk  of  them  intelligently.  Efficient  service  is  the  best  way  to  advertise 
the  library. 

Library  day.  It  is  well  to  have  one  day  a  year  for  a  public  reception  at  the 
library.  If  you  decide  to  do  this  make  every  effort  to  have  it  a  success.  It 
is  doubtful  whether  is  is  wise  to  attempt  to  send  invitations  to  individuals  iis 
it  is  impossble  to  send  to  every  one  in  town.  Have  a  general  invitation  in 
the  paper,  send  invitations  to  the  common  council,  to  city  officers,  to  each  study 
club  and  all  other  organizations  and  have  it  announced  in  the  churches.  If 
you  are  to  have  an  exhibition  or  address  mention  it  in  the  invitations.  Ask 
}Our  board  members  and  the  members  of  the  staff"  to  extend  verbal  invita- 
tions to  every  one.  An  effort  must  be  made  to  arouse  an  interest  as  it  is 
usually  very  difficult  to  get  people  to  attend  general  functions  where  every- 
one is  invited. 

Try  to  have  the  board  members  at  the  library  from  the  first  hour  of  the 
reception  to  the  last  and  have  them  share  the  responsibilities.  This  is  also 
a  good  opportunity  to  get  the  mayor  and  the  city  council  members  in  close 
touch  with  the  library.  Besides  getting  acquainted  with  the  people,  try  to 
explain  some  of  the  policies  and  such  of  the  technical  work  as  will  show  that 
the  library  is  conducted  in  a  systematic  order.  Try  to  have  a  special  display 
of  books  or  pictures  or  something  unusual  that  will  arouse  interest.  The  Wis- 
consin library  commission  has  a  small  collection  of  idustrated  books  on 
travel,  biography,  history,  useful  arts,  etc.,  that  may  be  borrowed  for  such  a 
display.    They  may  be  kept  for  a  limited  time  by  the  library  and  loaned  to 


10 


JVISCOXSIX  LIBRARY  BULLETIN     [February,  1910 


the  patrons.  The  commission  also  has  a  collection  of  German  and  French 
prints  and  some  Copley  prints  which  are  copies  of  Abbey's  Holy  grail  series 
in  the  Boston  public  library,  which  it  will  loan  to  any  library  in  the  state. 

If  a  genuinely  good  programme  can  be  planned  for  the  evening  it  will  add 
to  the  effectiveness  of  the  reception  day. 

One  library  has  held  informal  receptions  for  every  industry  in  the  city; 
that  is,  one  for  the  street  car  men,  typographic  union,  etc.  They  were  met 
by  a  committee  composed  of  the  library  board  and  the  librarian  and  shown 
about  the  library.  The  visitors'  attention  was  called  to  books  of  especial  in- 
terest to  them  in  relation  to  their  work  as  well  as  to  the  fiction,  popular  non- 
fiction  and  the  magazines.  The  result  was  increased  patronage.  Application 
blanks  might  be  signed  at  the  library  at  the  time  of  such  a  reception.  Books 
could  be  loaned,  too,  if  any  want  them  at  this  time. 

Book  day.  A  Book  day  is  similar  to  the  Library  day  only  not  so  preten- 
tious. Several  might  be  held  during  the  year  as  a  display  can  be  had  when 
"new  books  are  ready  for  circulation.  A  display  of  material  good  for  Christ- 
mas celebrations  early  in  December,  children's  books  or  adult  books  appropri- 
ate for  gifts,  attractive  editions,  are  some  of  the  displays  that  have  been  used 
for  Book  day.  The  same  books  and  pictures  which  the  Commission  has  and 
were  spoken  of  under  Library  day  may  be  borrowed  for  this,  also. 

Special  displays.  Any  collection  of  material  which  w^ill  give  any  historical 
or  educational  information  or  awaken  pleasure  is  worth  displaying  in  the  li- 
brary. Try  to  have  these  displays  often  enough  so  the  patrons  will  feel  that 
if  they  do  not  come  frequently  to  the  library  that  they  may  miss  something. 
They  also  add  much  to  the  attractiveness  of  the  library.  I  will  mention  a  few 
displays  that  have  been  tried  and  found  to  give  desirable  results,  hoping  that 
they  will  be  suggestive  of  others.  Ahvays  keep  in  mind  that  the  main  object 
IS  to  get  the  books  on  the  particular  subject  into  circulation.    Always  have 

number  of  the  books  near  the  exhibit. 

English  books.  An  interesting  display  may  be  made  by  bringing  the  books 
from  the  stacks  on  any  particular  subject  and  placing  them  on  the  display 
shelves.  This  has  been  tried  with  the  books  concerning  England,  when 
biographies  of  Englishmen,  histories,  books  of  travel,  art,  architecture,  etc. 
were  placed  on  the  display  shelves.  At  the  same  time  pictures  illustrating 
Englisli  life,  portraits  of  prominent  Englishmen,  facsimile  of  the  ^lagna 
Charta  were  exhibited. 

Irish  exhibit.  During  the  week  containing  St.  Patrick's  day  an  exhibit 
was  held  of  Irish  work  in  linen,  lace,  wood,  metal,  embroidery  on  silk,  Irish 
manuscripts  of  considerable  age,  books  and  maps. 

Madonnas.  An  exhibit  of  prints  of  the  famous  pictures  of  INIadonnas  will 
he  vahiable  and  interesting  at  Christmas  time. 

Shakespeare.  F.xhibit  of  portraits  of  Shakespeare,  famous  actors,  scenes 
from  plavs,  old  ])laybills,  etc.,  will  certainly  attract  students. 

Furniture.  1)Ooks  on  furniture,  new  and  old,  are  especially  interesting  in 
a  town  whei-c  there  arc  furniture  factories  and  will  attract  householders. 


February,  1910]     WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN 


11 


Costumes.  Illustrations  showing  old  time  costumes,  arranged  chronologi- 
cally will  certainly  prove  interesting  to  half  of  the  community. 

Home  economics.  Displays  of  the  best  books  on  cooking,  sewing,  house- 
keeping, sanitation,  etc.,  will  always  attract  someone  who  does  not  know  that 
the  library  has  books  on  such  subjects. 

Autographs.  In  almost  every  town  a  valuable  collection  of  autographs 
can  be  made. 

Posters.  The  librarian  of  Green  Bay  (Wis.)  public  library  says,  ''One 
of  our  most  successful  exhibits  was  the  one  of  posters,  showing  the  commer- 
cial and  artistic  methods  combined  in  advertising.  Publishing  houses,  cloth- 
ing companies,  paper  companies,  responded  to  the  requests  for  something  for 
such  a  display,  with  beautiful  samples".  Any  firm  or  company  vv^hich  adver- 
tises, and  all  do,  will  probably  be  glad  to  contribute  for  such  a  purpose. 

Japanese  prints.  By  watching  the  advertisements  in  the  International 
Studio  one  librarian  was  able  to  borrow  a  beautiful  exhibit  of  Japanese  prints 
from  a  firm  advertising  them  for  sale.  The  cost  to  the  library  was  only  the 
express. 

Arts  and  crafts.  Since  there  is  so  much  general  interest  in  arts  and  crafts 
an  exhibit  of  articles  made  by  people  in  the  town  will  prove  useful  for  an  ex- 
change of  ideas,  etc.  Several  libraries  have  borrowed  articles  from  other 
people  or  firms  who  deal  in  arts  and  crafts  articles  as  a  business. 

Pictures.-  There  are  certain  firms  who  deal  in  pictures  who  will  loan 
a  large  number  of  prints  for  exhibition.  The  Turner  picture  company  is  one 
which  does  this. 

Trade  catalogs.  Libraries  in  most  communities  could  follow  New^ark 
(N.  J.)  public  library's  plan  in  collecting  the  trade  catalogs  of  various  mechan- 
ical manufacturing  firms.  This  is  a  novel  method  of  disseminating  knowledge 
of  a  character  not  generally  obtainable  without  considerable  trouble  and  for 
which  there  is  a  growing  demand.  The  chief  values  in  these  are  the  illus- 
tiations,  price  lists  and  addresses  of  firms.  The  Newark  library  loans  these 
for  home  use.  "At  the  time  of  the  disaster  to  the  steamer  RepubHc  off 
Nantucket  there  was  considerable  demand  for  the  catalogs  on  marine  hard- 
ware and  engines." 

Public  speakers.  Public  speakers  can  influence  many  people  to  use  the  li- 
brary by  referring  to  certain  books  as  being  there  found.  You  can  easily 
interest  ministers,  school  men,  politicians  and  all  lecturers  on  any  subject 
whatever  to  do  this  and  it  will  repay  any  effort  made. 

Public  lectures  in  the  library.  One  of  the  influential  methods  of  show- 
ing the  citizens  of  a  town  that  the  library  is  a  wide  awake  institution  is  by 
having  thoroughly  good  lectures.  The  lectures  will  usually  need  to  be  popular 
as  well  as  instructive.  We  always  hope  that  the  lectures  will  cause  increased 
reading  on  the  subject.  To  encourage  this,  after  each  lecture,  have  the  books 
near  at  hand  and  loan  any  that  people  wish  to  take. 

Wlien  the  lectures  are  given  be  sure  that  they  are  advertised  thoroughly. 


12 


WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN    [February,  1910- 


Have  notices  in  the  newspapers,  announcements  made  in  the  schools  and 
churches,  chibs  and  other  organizations.  The  Madison  (Wis.)  pubHc  Ubrary 
has  issued  very  effective  posters  about  24'^  by  15'',  announcing  the  place,  date, 
speaker,  subject  and  in  large  letters  "All  are  invited".  Some  of  the  subjects 
that  have  been  used  for  popular  lectures  are  How  to  run  a  furnace,  Fireless 
cooker,  Japan,  Indians,  Gardening,  Tuberculosis. 

Newspapers.  In  almost  any  town  the  newspapers  are  glad  to  publish  any 
library  news  free  of  charge.  As  a  rule,  it  is  interesting  reading  which  they 
are  glad  to  add  to  their  paper. 

Newspapers  are  undoubtedly  the  most  valuable  advertising  aid  the  library 
can  have.  The  librarian  should  make  the  acquaintance  of  the  editor  and  en- 
list his  support  and  interest  in  the  library.  It  is  also  worth  while  to  make 
friends  with  the  reporter.  Even  then,  it  is  much  safer  to  prepare  carefully 
anything  you  w^ant  published  rather  than  leave  it  to  be  written  by  the  editor 
or  reporter.  It  is  well  to  make  use  of  every  newspaper  in  town  no  matter 
in  wdiat  language  it  is  printed.  When  there  is  more  than  one  paper  it  is  wise 
to  publish  practically  the  same  things  in  all  papers,  but  take  time  to  word  the 
articles  differently  for  the  sake  of  the  newspaper  and  also  the  readers.  If  you 
give  certain  news  for  the  morning  paper  first  at  one  time,  be  sure  to  give  the 
evening  paper  a  chance  to  print  the  next  new^s  first. 

In  preparing  material  for  the  newspaper  try  to  conform  to  the  custom  of 
the  paper  in  writing  head  lines,  capitalization  and  journalistic  style.  When  it 
is  apparent  that  some  attention  has  been  paid  to  these  details  your  contribu- 
tions w^ill  be  looked  on  with  greater  favor. 

It  has  been  proven  that  to  make  advertising  in  the  newspaper  one  of  the 
important  pieces  of  work  for  a  month  or  a  year  is  time  well  spent.  It  is  ad- 
visable to  systematically  plan  to  take  time  to  do  this  on  a  large  scale  for  a  cer- 
tain period. 

One  library  published  in  the  daily  paper  a  list  of  books  on  some  industry, 
a  different  subject  every  day  for  thirty  days,  ard  the  result  was  that  the  de- 
mand for  books  was  nearly  doubled  in  four  months. 

Book  revkzvs.  Short  interesting  reviews  of  one  book  of  non-fiction  or  re- 
views comparing  two  or  three  books  on  a  su1)ject  have  been  found  to  cause 
more  desirable  reading  than  long  lists  of  autrors  and  titles.  Try  to  get  edi- 
tors, board  members  and  other  well  qualified  people  to  read  books  of  non- 
fiction  and  then  review  them.  In  a  small  town  in  Wisconsin  a  member  of  the 
library  board  wrote  and  published  a  review  of  Steiner's  "On  the  trail  of 
the  immigrant"  with  the  result  that  it  was  in  constant  circulation  for  months. 
In  another  town  the  signature  of  the  reviewer  added  weight  and  interest  to 
the  book  reviews.  The  same  experinvMit  v,  as  tried  with  other  books  with 
like  results.  The  A.  L.  A.  Book-list  v,  ill  liel;)  in  giving  suggestions  for  such 
reviews.  The  vSpringfield  (Mass.)  Monthly  bulletin,  which  can  be  had  for 
25c  a  year,  always  contains  a  nrml)er  of  re\i?ws  which  are  suggestive  and 
helpful. 


Febmary,  1910]     WISCONSIN  LIBRARY  BULLETIN 


13 


Brief  lists.  When  there  is  particular  interest  aroused  in  any  subject,  a 
brief  annotated  Hst  of  material  in  the  Hbrary  on  the  subject,  will  sometimes 
cause  books  to  be  borrowed.  It  seems  best  to  try  to  have  these  on  current 
subjects  or  subjects  which  you  know  there  is  some  demand  for,  as  city  govern- 
ment by  commission,  Nicaragua,  etc. 

Nezvs  of  the  state.  Occasionally  give  news  concerning  the  other  libraries 
of  the  state.  In  giving  this  be  careful  not  to  compare  your  library  with  an- 
other to  its  detriment.  Give  full  accounts  of  the  state  and  national  library 
meetings. 

General  articles.  Give  news  concerning  the  local  library,  for  example 
such  proceedings  of  the  library  board,  as  may  be  made  public ;  account  of  gifts 
with  the  name  of  the  donors ;  expensive  or  unusual  books  that  have  been  pur- 
chased ;  sometimes  give  an  article  about  some  well-known  person,  mentioning 
what  material  the  library  has  concerning  him.  This  is,  especially,  effective 
after  some  particular  attention  has  been  called  to  him  in  the  newspapers.  For 
example,  the  day  after  the  announcement  of  the  death  of  George  Meredith, 
I  should  have  had  a  Hst  published,  a  list  giving  such  works  of  his  as  were  in 
the  library  and  material  about  him. 

Several  times  a  year  prepare  an  article  on  the  purpose  of  the  library,  stating 
that  it  is  its  business  to  furnish  information  on  any  subject,  the  necessity  of 
knowing  the  needs  of  the  individuals,  and  emphasizing  the  wiUingness  of 
the  librarian  to  talk  with  all  about  the  books  he  would  like.  Articles  are  use- 
ful on  the  need  of  appropriations  and  books,  on  any  special  effort  the  library 
is  making  to  disseminate  knowledge,  for  example  preparing  special  collections 
on  the  history  of  the  state. 

The  following  is  quoted  from  the  Newark  (N.  J.)  Annual  report:  "The 
circiilation  in  the  branches  increased  187  per  cent,  over  the  year  before  and 
one  of  the  reasons  is  the  persistent  and  now  long  continued  advertising  for 
which  we  are  chiefly  indebted  to  the  courtesy  of  the  local  newspaper." 


